Nor-QD

Nor-QD is an oral contraceptive that is available by prescription. It is a progestin-only pill that is most commonly used by women who are breastfeeding or cannot take estrogens for other reasons. Nor-QD tablets should be taken once daily, at the same time each day. Some of the common side effects reported with the drug include nausea, breast tenderness, and irregular menstrual periods.

 

What Is Nor-QD?

Nor-QD® (norethindrone) is a prescription oral contraceptive, also known as a birth control pill. It is a progestin-only contraceptive (also known as a "mini pill"), named because it contains just a progestin hormone. Most other birth control pills are combined oral contraceptives, meaning that they contain both an estrogen and a progestin hormone. Nor-QD is an ideal choice for breastfeeding mothers and other women who should not take estrogens.
 
(Click Nor-QD Uses for more information, including possible off-label uses.)
 

Who Makes Nor-QD?

Nor-QD is made by Watson Pharmaceuticals, Inc. It is also available in generic form, sold under the following names:
 
  • Camila® (made by Barr Pharmaceuticals, Inc.)
  • Nora-BE® (made by Watson Pharmaceuticals, Inc.).
     
(See Generic Nor-QD for more information.)
 

How Does Nor-QD Work?

Because Nor-QD contains only a progestin, it is not as effective as pills that contain both a progestin and an estrogen (known as combined oral contraceptives). Nor-QD and other progestin-only oral contraceptives stop ovulation in only about half of the women who take them.
 
Because Nor-QD is only 50 percent effective at preventing ovulation, it must rely on other mechanisms to prevent pregnancy. The drug alters the lining of the uterus (the endometrium), making it less receptive to an embryo. It also changes the cervical mucus (the fluid of the cervix, which is the lower, narrow part of the uterus that is connected to the vagina), making it more difficult for sperm to enter the uterus.
 
Unlike combined oral contraceptives, there are no inactive or "placebo" pills in each pack of Nor-QD. Every tablet contains the active hormone, and there is no break in between pills or packs. Because there are no breaks, menstrual periods often occur at irregular intervals.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;